Capello calls for unity

England manager Fabio Capello has been encouraged by the performance of his players in training in the wake of the negative headlines surrounding the camp in recent weeks. Lurid headlines regarding John Terry’s private life and his subsequent removal as captain of the national team have dominated the agenda.

Carlton Cole, Shaun Wright-Phillips, John Terry and Joleon Lescott in training on Tuesday

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England manager Fabio Capello has been encouraged by the performance of his players in training in the wake of the negative headlines surrounding the camp in recent weeks.

Lurid headlines regarding John Terry’s private life and his subsequent removal as captain of the national team have dominated the agenda.

Steven Gerrard will captain the side against Egypt in the absence of the injured United defender Rio Ferdinand, who was promoted to skipper following Terry’s demotion.

Wayne Bridge’s decision to make himself unavailable for selection for the national team amid reports Terry had an affair with his former partner has also cast a cloud over the camp, but Capello has been pleased with the response this week.

“I spoke with the players and said they have to recreate the spirit of the team and train with focus,” Capello explained.

“I’m really happy because I saw the same thing as in November (in the friendly against Brazil in Doha).”

There are fears of a fans’ backlash against Terry at Wembley, but Capello has joined with United striker Wayne Rooney in urging Three Lions supporters not to give the Chelsea skipper a hard time.

“I think the fans have to support every moment,” he said.

“You have to understand that privately some players were not so good, but on the pitch it is different.

“We wear the England shirt and it is really important they help us every moment.

“I hope that tomorrow the crowd help us and do not boo him.”

On Terry’s mental state ahead of the game, Capello added: “He is training very well.

“He will be the same player in the dressing room. I told him you have to do the same things as a captain.”

Asked whether he could potentially perform a u-turn over the decision to strip Terry of the captaincy, the Italian replied: “I think no. I think the next captain will be Rio. For tomorrow, the captain will be Steven Gerrard.”